Year 6 pupils have really enjoyed finding out about what it was like to live in Wales during World War Two and how everyone helped in the ‘war effort’ in one way or another.
At the start of term, Year 6 had a shock when an air raid siren wailed and a strangely familiar ARP warden stormed into our classrooms. The ARP Warden was very convincing; we learned about his important role, why rationing and blackouts were necessary, and the impact war had on everyone’s lives. Thankfully, it was only a false alarm, although it certainly was an experience that we don’t think they’ll forget any time soon!
Year 6 had a fantastic day exploring the grounds and buildings of Cardiff Castle. The children were greeted by an ARP Warden (Air Raid Precaution Warden) and took part in a fascinating workshop. We learnt about his role during the war and what it would have been like during the many air raids people in Wales and all over Britain encountered. We learnt about the different types of bombs that were used, the different types of air raid shelters and how to use a gas mask. Throughout the day we reflected on the impact that the bombings had on the people and communities of Wales and how it affected their daily lives. We learnt of the incredibly important role of women during the war and how that changed attitudes and shaped the future. We ventured into the tunnels within the castle walls, which were used as air raid shelters by the people of Cardiff and could hold up to 1600 people! Within the walls, Neville Chamberlain’s declaration of war speech was played, we heard an air raid siren sound the alarm, then came the sounds of aeroplanes and bombs falling! During the ‘air raid,’ we listened to Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll meet again’. On our return to school, we reflected on what we had learnt on our visit and we will continue to investigate lifestyles during World War 2!
As part of STEM children took part in practical investigations involving ‘Training like a soldier’. They measured their heart rate after doing exercises such as star jumps, burpees and press ups and applied their Numeracy skills to calculate the average from a set of data.
Newport Live also kindly visited us this term to deliver two informative workshops about leading healthy lifestyles. We learned about the benefits of making healthy food choices and discussed the negative effects excessive sugar consumption can have on our bodies. Can you believe a 500ml bottle of coke contains 14g of sugar. That’s 3g over our recommended daily allowance!
The second workshop raised awareness about the health risks associated with smoking and vaping. Some of the facts really shocked us! Thank you ‘Newport Live’ for educating us for the future.
Running up to the end of this half term, all classes have put in a tremendous amount of effort to prepare for our yearly Eisteddfod, which will be held after half term. All have worked hard on perfecting their handwriting skills and producing a still-life sketch of an evacuee’s suitcase. As well as that children have been brave enough to enter the singing, dancing and musical instrument competitions. We have some very talented children and future stars in the making. Maximum effort was put into writing their poems; ‘Wonderful Wales’, each hoping for a chance to be crowned ‘Chair of the Bard’ Good luck everyone!!
We would love as many children as possible to enter the D&T competition which involves designing and building a World War Two Air raid Shelter. Entries will need to be in school on the first day after half term. Just a helpful reminder, please put your ‘nom de plumes’, house and class clearly on your project so you can earn points for your house.
As always we would like to thank you for your continued support at home with all aspects of school life. We have lots of exciting things planned for after half term and will continue to post photographs and videos on Dojo so you can see for yourself and celebrate your child’s achievements!
Have a safe and happy half term.
